"I definitely look at it like an opportunity," Hogue said. "It's bad what happened to Ike, but even when it happened to him, he looked at me and said, 'You better get ready. It's your time.'"

Hogue is cognizant of Ekejiuba's contributions on special teams and feels he's better prepared for watching his teammate's approach.

"He's one of the best," Hogue said. "Having that opportunity to learn from him, being able to study, make sure I get the plays down - little things like technique and things like that - I feel like it was a great thing. Now I have to seize the opportunity."

If Hogue is active for the game in Dallas this Sunday, it will be the first time this season. He's prepared to have his number called.

"I expect to be active every week, so when it comes around, I have to make sure I'm ready at all times."